These sweet and savory oven-roasted cherry tomatoes are slow-cooked with garlic, olive oil, and herbs for a deeply flavorful result. Gently caramelized and bursting with concentrated flavor, they make the perfect topping for pasta, pizza, grain bowls, or a simple slice of crusty bread. Easy to make and incredibly versatile, this recipe transforms a humble tomato into a kitchen staple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Oven Roasted Cherry Tomatoes bring out the very best in tomatoes by enhancing their natural sweetness and umami. Roasting them low and slow concentrates their juices, while garlic and herbs add depth and aroma. The result is a rich, savory-sweet tomato that’s incredibly useful in so many dishes. They’re perfect for meal prep, store well, and can instantly elevate everyday meals. Oven Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

5 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for storage)
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using).
Spread the tomato mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Roast for 1 hour, or until the tomatoes are soft, slightly shriveled, and caramelized around the edges.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Use immediately or store in an airtight container with a splash of olive oil in the refrigerator.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Calories: Approximately 46 kcal per serving

Variations

Fresh Herb Finish: Add chopped fresh basil or parsley after roasting for added brightness.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes before roasting for a bit of heat.
Roasted Shallots: Add thinly sliced shallots to the tray for extra flavor.
Balsamic Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or glaze just before serving.
Sun-Dried Style: Roast an extra 30–40 minutes for a more concentrated, chewy texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store the roasted cherry tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To keep them moist, top with a little extra olive oil before sealing. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat or bring to room temperature and serve cold, depending on your use.

FAQs

Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes, grape tomatoes work just as well and may be slightly less juicy but equally delicious when roasted.

Do I need to remove the tomato skins?

No, the skins soften and wrinkle beautifully during roasting, adding texture and flavor.

What does the sugar do in this recipe?

It enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and helps with caramelization, especially if your tomatoes are slightly tart.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, but add fresh herbs like basil or parsley after roasting to preserve their color and flavor.

Can I roast at a higher temperature to save time?

Roasting at a lower temperature allows the tomatoes to cook slowly and develop deeper flavor. Higher temperatures may cook them faster but can lead to burning or uneven results.

How can I use these roasted tomatoes?

Toss them with pasta, layer them on sandwiches or pizza, mix into salads or grain bowls, or spread them on toasted bread with ricotta or goat cheese.

Can I freeze roasted cherry tomatoes?

Yes, freeze in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or warm gently in a pan before using.

Why do you add baking soda in some tomato recipes but not here?

Baking soda is sometimes used in tea recipes to neutralize bitterness, but it’s not needed in this recipe, as tomatoes benefit from their natural acidity for flavor balance.

Do I need to stir the tomatoes while roasting?

No stirring is needed. Just spread them evenly and roast undisturbed for best caramelization.

How do I store them in olive oil?

Place cooled tomatoes in a jar, cover with olive oil, and refrigerate. Use within a week for best flavor and food safety.

Conclusion

Oven Roasted Cherry Tomatoes are a simple yet powerful way to amplify the flavor of fresh tomatoes. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, this versatile ingredient can transform everyday meals into something memorable. Sweet, savory, and packed with flavor, they’re a must-have addition to your weekly cooking routine.